Google begins rating Google Play Android apps

Google has a new approach to how it’s presenting applications in Google Play. The company recently implemented a new system that adds some ESRB-style content rating system so that you have an idea of what you – or more importantly, your kids – are getting into.

“We know that people in different countries have different ideas about what content is appropriate for kids, teens and adults, so today’s announcement will help developers better label their apps for the right audience,” Google Play product manager Eunice Kim said. “Consistent with industry best practices, this change will give developers an easy way to communicate familiar and locally relevant content ratings to their users and help improve app discovery and engagement by letting people choose content that is right for them.”

The ratings system comes with a requirement that developers fill out a questionnaire about the app so that it can be evaluated for a rating by Google’s team of experts. It’s not required right now, Google explained, noting that developers who opt out may receive an “unrated” tag, which may prevent it from appearing to some Google Play users depending on age and territory. As of May, however, all developers will need to begin filling out the questionnaire in order for their apps to be published.

As you can see in the image above, some of the ratings include apps that are approved for use by “everyone” and for “general” use, but it will also alert app buyers about content more appropriately suited for teens and adults. Google is pulling in data from the Age Rating Coalition (IARC) which includes ratings from the ESRB, PEGI, USK and ClassInd.